GMC Vandura

The GMC Vandura, also sold as the Chevy Van, was a full-size van produced by GMC from 1970 (introduced in April 1970 as 1971 models), up until 1996. In 1996, in its last model year, it co-existed with a new generation full-size van, the Savana, which did not fully replace the Vandura until, of course, 1997.

Along with its Chevrolet twin - the second-generation G-series vans replaced the "breadloaf" (a.k.a. Scooby-Doo) 1964-70 generation. The previous generation was a modified passenger car platform (using components sourced from the Chevy II - primarily the powerplants and brakes), and the second generation Vandura used suspension parts from the Chevrolet/GMC C-series pickups. Ironically, 3/4 ton Chevrolet/GMC vans used ball joints from a 2500 series pickups while the brakes are HD versions used on their 1/2 tons. Powerplants and transmission choices were the same with their truck counterparts.

1970

The Vandura (and sister Chevrolet Chevyvan) replaced the earlier GMC Handi-Van (and sister Chevrolet Sportvan). The GMCs were introduced in April 1970; interior components such as the steering column and steering wheel were sourced from their Chevrolet/GMC C/K pickups.

The short wheelbase vans measured 110 inches, while the long wheelbase was 125 inches (the previous generation had either a 90 or 108 inch wheelbase).

1978

The front sheetmetal was updated with square or round headlights and a front plastic grille sourced from both Chevrolet and GMC light duty pickup trucks.

1980

All 1980 vans were complemented new rear view mirrors on the drivers and passenger doors.

1982

Locking steering column introduced..The last model year for a three speed manual on the column.

1983

Stacked headlights introduced, alongside with a flatter front grille similar to the one used on Chevrolet C/K trucks replacing the previous year's 1980 vintage eggcrate design (last used on the 1980 Chevrolet C/K pickup).The shifter for all manual transmissions are now on the floor and the steering column is now of the same tilt as the C/K series pickups.A tilt steering column is now availiable with a manual transmission. All vans now have square headlamps.